Mathematics Education, MEd

The admissions team for the MEd in Mathematics Education program gladly welcomes your application.

Teachers with certification in elementary, middle school, high school, or special education are encouraged to consider either the elementary and middle-level or secondary-level specializations in mathematics education. This is a great way to earn credits towards Level II Certification.

Individuals who aim to earn a grades 7-12 mathematics teaching certification are encouraged to consider the Mathematics 7-12 Teaching Certification Preparation specialization. Program candidates may complete the program along a traditional or experience-based pathway. See Flexible Mathematics 7-12 Certification with Traditional and PA Experience-Based Pathways.

Here are some specifics for admissions deadlines:

• The program reviews admissions applications for a fall, spring, or summer start.
• There is no deadline to apply for the Elementary and Middle Level or Secondary Specialization.
• Specific deadlines apply to candidates applying to the Mathematics 7-12 Teaching Certification Preparation specialization. This is to secure school placements for field experiences and to ensure candidates meet program qualifications. Candidates seeking the grades 7-12 mathematics teaching certification specialization should plan to complete and submit all application materials by the following dates to be fully considered for the program:
  • Fall start — June 15
  • Spring start — September 15
  • Summer start — March 15.

The Master of Education in Mathematics Education features three specializations designed to meet the needs of both aspiring and experienced educators. While all specializations share core admission requirements, the Mathematics 7-12 Teaching Certification Preparation specialization includes additional admissions criteria because it leads to initial teacher certification. The other two specializations are designed for currently certified teachers seeking to deepen their mathematics content knowledge, strengthen instructional practice, and advance their professional goals.

Elementary and Middle Level and Secondary Level Specializations

• Minimum cumulative undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
• An undergraduate degree earned from a regionally accredited institution.
• Undergraduate degrees in education, mathematics, or a mathematics-related field are preferred. However, other degree programs will be considered.

Mathematics 7-12 Teaching Certification Preparation Specialization

• S. in mathematics or related field. An undergraduate degree is from an accredited college or university. Undergraduate degrees outside mathematics or a related field will be considered.
• Undergraduate GPA 3.0 or higher. Mathematics coursework will be reviewed to determine the strength of the candidate’s application. Additional coursework may be required if coursework and/or experiences do not match IUP’s BSED in Mathematics Education program.
• Meet with the Program Coordinator. Eligible candidates will be expected to meet with the graduate coordinator before an admission decision to discuss the program’s expectations.
  • Close Proximity to IUP. Candidates who reside more than 50 miles from IUP should contact the graduate coordinator to discuss options for field-experience coursework. School placement for EDUC 641 Student Teaching must be within 50 miles or 1 hour of IUP.
• School Experience & Clearances. Candidates will be required to complete time and observations in mathematics classroom(s) before acceptance, using school experience forms provided by the graduate coordinator. Candidates for the program must be able to obtain all PA-required clearances and a Castle branch account to house them. Please visit the Educator Preparation Clearance Requirements for a list of all clearances.

To complete your admissions application, make sure to:

• Create and submit an admissions profile through graduate admissions.
• Pay the $50 application fee.
• Submit official transcripts from all degree-awarding colleges and universities. Unofficial transcripts will be considered for admission purposes.
• Provide two letters of recommendation, not older than one year, from individuals who are familiar with your academic ability and potential. 
• Submit an updated résumé or vitae.
• Write a goal statement describing how you expect the MEd in Mathematics Education program to help you achieve your career and academic goals. Your goal statement must be at least 2 pages, double-spaced.
• Experience-based certificate candidates are required to email the graduate coordinator two letters of acknowledgment on school letterhead (see Program Handbook Appendix). One letter of acknowledgment should be from the building principal, and the second from your mentor teacher.
• Candidates for the specialization in Mathematics 7-12 Teaching Certification Preparation will be required to 1) complete School Experience forms and submit to the graduate coordinator, and 2) upload required clearances to the Castle branch account.